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The Service User Number is a unique reference obtained by your sponsor bank OR third party, such as SmartDebit, which will allow you to collect recurring payments by Direct Debit.
Having your own Service User Number means you have complete control over the amounts you collect and the frequency with which collections take place. You’ll also benefit from the collected funds being received immediately, as the collections are made to and from your own account rather than via a third party which means you have greater control of your cash flow.
Each bank has its own application process and will advise you of the steps you should take in order to become a Service User.
As a rule, the following points are usually considered when deciding if a business is deemed suitable to obtain their own Service User Number:
Minimum turnover of £1 to 5 million
Five years or over in business
A UK bank account
Strong financial record keeping
Legal and regulatory compliance
Excellent Credit Rating
The first thing to do is to contact your bank
The bank will assess your viability for a Service User Number
If approved, you will need to complete a series of documentation
If unsuccessful, you will need to speak to a Bacs Accredited bureau such as SmartDebit
If the bank confirms you are in a position to obtain your own Service User Number, you will need to complete the following documentation:
If you choose to partner with SmartDebit, we will assist you with all steps relating to your application, rather than leave you on your own as some other suppliers do. Our expert team have helped thousands of customers to obtain their own Service User Numbers and with the completion of these forms. We will help you to provide all documentation requested by the bank and complete all mandatory testing as part of the set-up process.
Brilliant, you’re one step closer to the benefits of Direct Debit. Now that you’ve successfully obtained your Service User Number, you have some important decisions to make!
You will need custom software to send and process the Bacs files. Direct Debit payments need to be reconciled, and a trained team of staff is needed to interpret reports and run the necessary internal processes.
The simplest solution for your organisation could be to work with an expert third-party provider, such as SmartDebit, who can take away all the hassle with a Bureau service, equipping you with time-saving automation tools backed by industry-leading support.
or call 01276 472200 to discuss your organisation’s requirements.